On July 1, 2001, a Cessna 172N (registration N737SH) operated by Westair Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Boulder City, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the loss of engine power while in cruise flight due to the mechanic's improper magneto timing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An airplane nosed over during a forced landing following a loss of engine power in cruise flight. The engine had experienced a magneto timing problem two days earlier, which was reset, but post-accident examination revealed magneto contact points would not open.
Accident Description
The airplane nosed over during a forced landing after experiencing a loss of engine power while in cruise flight.
Engine Maintenance History
The engine had previously lost power two days before the accident due to an internal magneto timing problem. The magneto timing was reset and the airplane was returned to service. A 100-hour inspection was performed 3.1 flight hours prior to the accident. The earlier magneto maintenance adjustment took place at an unknown time between the 100-hour inspection and the accident flight.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the engine revealed that the magneto contact points would not open. The magneto was retimed and found to operate normally.
What happened in the 1 Jul 2001 Cessna 172N accident near Boulder City, NV?
An airplane nosed over during a forced landing following a loss of engine power in cruise flight. The engine had experienced a magneto timing problem two days earlier, which was reset, but post-accident examination revealed magneto contact points would not open.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Jul 2001 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N737SH, operated by Westair Aviation, at Boulder City, NV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the loss of engine power while in cruise flight due to the mechanic's improper magneto timing.
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